As being on a plant based diet for over 30 years, I often face the challenge of finding restaurants that cater to my dietary preferences while traveling. So, discovering Restaurant Botanica during my trip to Mallorca felt like a stroke of luck. I was genuinely excited to treat myself to a nice dinner. Unfortunately, my experience was far from the warm, inclusive, and welcoming environment I had hoped for.

After a beautiful day exploring the northern part of the island—swimming at a hidden beach surrounded by cliffs, watching the sunset, and enjoying the natural beauty of Mallorca—I looked forward to ending my day with a delicious meal. I had traveled all the way from the U.S. for a yoga retreat and was eager to experience what I thought would be a place that embraced wellness and healthy living. After my relaxing day, I took a taxi from Palma Norte, expecting Restaurant Botanica to be the perfect spot.

However, upon arriving, dressed in a long, flowing skirt, a white tank top, with my hair up in a bun after a swim, wearing white Birkenstock slippers (I know - not fancy), and carrying a small backpack, I was met with an unexpectedly cold reception. Despite the restaurant being visibly empty, I was curtly informed that there were no available tables. When I politely asked if I could look around or wait for a table, I was flatly denied.

I couldn’t help but feel judged based on my sun-kissed and adventure-kissed appearance. I wasn't in a formal outfit, but I was presentable, and ready to enjoy what I thought was a welcoming haven for healthy, plant-based cuisine. Instead, I was met with what felt like a wall of egoistic, stuck-up pretentiousness. The dismissive attitude made me feel unwelcome, and I left with the distinct impression that the staff were more interested in catering to a certain type of clientele rather than offering genuine hospitality.

This experience was particularly disheartening. As a Global Director at a mid-sized tech company, I have traveled extensively and dined in various establishments around the world. Never have I encountered such an exclusionary and judgmental environment. But this isn’t about my job title; it’s about basic human decency and respect. I value inclusive places that embrace diversity, where people are treated with kindness regardless of their appearance or background. Restaurant Botanica, however, seems more interested in mainta